FIFA set precedent for nations breaking kit rules with Cameroon punishment amid Hummel's Denmark controversy

As Denmark and their kit manufacturer Hummel were called out by the host nation Qatar for their attempts to obscure the sponsor, we look back at one particular example where FIFA stamped down on what they classified as illegal kits.

Back in 2002, the Cameroon national team won the African Cup of Nations wearing sleeveless shirts. However, FIFA were not impressed and told Cameroon to ditch the vests for the 2002 World Cup. 

Cameroon went to the tournament with the green vests with an addition of black sleeves, the federation’s spokesperson, Keith Cooper said: “They’re not shirts, they’re vests.” 

In 2004, Cameroon once again angered FIFA with their kit design. This time they went for a onesie during the African Cup of Nations, FIFA handed them a $154,000 fine and they were docked six points from their 2006 World Cup qualifying group. However, the proposed punishment was withdrawn after Puma threatened legal action. 

Could Denmark soon be in trouble for their World Cup kit? 

Kit manufacturers Hummel said: “We don’t wish to be visible during a tournament that has cost thousands of people their lives. 

“With the Danish national team's new jerseys, we wanted to send a dual message. They are not only inspired by Euro 92, paying tribute to Denmark's greatest football success, but also a protest against Qatar and its human rights record.

“That's why we've toned down all the details for Denmark's new World Cup jerseys, including our logo and iconic chevrons. We don't wish to be visible during a tournament that has cost thousands of people their lives.

“We support the Danish national team all the way, but that isn't the same as supporting Qatar as a host nation.

“We believe that sport should bring people together. And when it doesn't, we want to make a statement.”

The tournament’s organisers, the Qatar Supreme Committee has since issued a furious statement. 

It reads: "Since winning the right to host the FIFA World Cup, the SC has worked diligently alongside the Qatari government to ensure that the tournament delivers a lasting social legacy," read a statement. 

"For that reason, we dispute Hummel's claim that this tournament has cost thousands of people their lives. Furthermore, we whole-heartedly reject the trivialising our genuine commitment to protect the health and safety of the 30,000 workers who built FIFA World Cup stadiums and other tournament projects.

"That same commitment now extends to 150,000 workers across various tournament services and 40,000 workers in the hospitality sector.

"The onus should always be on countries to do more to protect the rights of peoples all over the world, including in Denmark. The SC's work is recognised by numerous entities within the international human rights community as a model that has accelerated progress and improved lives.

"Qatar's reforms are acknowledged by the ILO and ITUC as a benchmark in the region. Like every country, progress on these issues is a journey without a finish line, and Qatar is committed to that journey.

"We urge the DBU to accurately convey the outcome of their extensive communication and work with the SC, and to ensure that this is accurately communicated to their partners at Hummel."